Perspectives on Diabetes Care

Opportunity to Set the Stage for Changing Diabetes Technology

May 14, 2012, 01:00 AM

Have you had patients share with you their frustrations at not being able to see the screen on the pump? Of having a hypoglycemic reaction and being unable get the wrapper off the glucose tabs? Of having to wait for long periods of time to download insulin pumps or to have the software not work with their old computer? Or maybe a patient just has a great idea they would like to share. 

A new contest, Patient Voices, has just been launched by Diabetes Mine, one of the better-known online patient resource sites. The contest involves sharing concerns about diabetes device design with individuals designing the projects. So, rather than grumbling and complaining under their breath, individuals can actually reach out to those who do make changes!

The goal of the competition is to create a “think tank” of individuals who want to make the diabetes technology world even better. What a great concept! 

So think back over the last few weeks or months, and consider those times where one of your patients wished there was someone to call to express how they thought technology could do a better job and encourage them to sign up to share their concerns and suggestions! The patient-centered (or parents of children) competition requires a 2-3 minute video submission describing what your patients would like to see from the diabetes device makers, and what issues there are right now. For example: I wish there was a meter that cross country skiers could use that would not get too cold to work! Or maybe a talking pump that could help individuals with failing sight.

There is a great video that explains the competition in detail.  http://youtu.be/LNYiCqRBzsE

Share the link with your colleagues and patients: www.diabetesmine.com/designcontest

The deadline is June 12, 2012 so hurry up and get those videos in.